ATHMHÚSCAIL { Re awaken }

Uillinn West Cork Arts centre 2025

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Photography by Christian Habould 

This exhibition acknowledges that abandoning one form of spirituality without replacing it with something else goes against the deeply ingrained human need for focus and a way to navigate life’s challenges. We seek to connect with others, mark seasonal transitions and share in collective cultural experiences, while remaining open to alternative views. Unfortunately, the belief that one’s path is the only true path has often been the source of religious fundamentalism, leading to suffering and division. This exhibition emphasises the importance of a spirituality that is inclusive and unifying, rather than divisive.

 As society undergoes significant changes, so too do our relationships with Christianity and religious institutions. While traditional religious upbringing has provided solace for many, it is becoming increasingly clear that these structures are changing, leaving us uncertain about what direction lies ahead. At the same time, we find ourselves reassessing our relationship with nature and rethinking the philosophical foundations of modern society. Criticism has often been directed at the Biblical notion of “dominion over the earth,” with many questioning its impact. In this context, some look back to pre-Christian Ireland, or to the period when early Christianity coexisted with older spiritual beliefs, in search of meaning.

Art Booklet to accompany the exhibiton – selected quote pages